On October 28, Pope Francis addressed the Scalabrinian missionaries, highlighting Italy’s low birthrate as a key reason the country needs migrants. He pointed out that with an average age of 46, Italy’s aging population could benefit from the presence of migrants, who bring vitality and contribute to the nation’s growth. The Pope stressed that welcoming migrants is crucial, urging Italians to integrate and support newcomers to build a more inclusive society.
Speaking passionately about his background as the child of migrants, Pope Francis noted the resilience of migrants, who leave home in search of a better life. “Migrants come in search of daily bread and hope, often facing closed doors but refusing to give up,” he remarked. He commended the perseverance of migrants, which he believes teaches society about hope and family commitment, even in challenging conditions.
The Pope highlighted three essential parts of the Scalabrinian mission: “migrants, pastoral ministry, and charity.” He said that migrants offer valuable lessons in hope and perseverance, driven by love for their families left behind. For him, the journey migrants undertake reveals a universal desire for security and dignity that transcends race and background.
Expressing concern over the treatment of migrants, Pope Francis criticized how wealthy nations often see them as threats or mere labor resources. Citing examples from northern Italy, he lamented the use of migrant workers for seasonal tasks, such as apple harvesting, only to send them away afterward. This practice, he said, reflects a troubling pattern of exploitation where human lives are undervalued and discarded.
The Pope also condemned the tragic outcomes for migrants who are left vulnerable in their pursuit of survival. He criticized the indifferent or exploitative attitudes of some who view migrants as a burden, commenting, “Many lives are lost while people stand by or, worse, profit from the suffering of others.”
Pope Francis concluded by emphasizing that migrants are an important part of Italy’s future and urged all people to approach this reality with compassion and support, recognizing that Italy’s need for migrants goes beyond economics, reaching into the heart of human dignity and shared aspirations.